As more agricultural players express concern at the increasing incidents of truck attacks in parts of the country, calls to pay attention to the well-being of truck drivers have increased.
So far, 21 trucks have been torched in KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga since Sunday. The uncontrolled criminal activity threatens food security, Agri SA said, and Gauteng farmer Mbali Nwoko agrees.
Key routes affected
Nwoko is the CEO of Green Terrace and is among many farmers saddened by the recent attacks on trucks. “These incidents pose a significant threat to food prices and our economy, as it is estimated that 7 000 trucks use the Van Reenen’s Pass route on a daily basis,” she said.
The Van Reenen’s Pass makes its way through the Drakensberg Mountains between Ladysmith and Harrismith, along the N3 between Durban and Johannesburg. Besides offering a scenic drive, the route is strategically important for trade and transportation.
According to Nwoko, arson on trucks cause delays in harvesting on farms, and the transportation of agricultural goods and services is also disrupted. This ultimately results in decreased traffic to national fresh produce markets and auctions.
The truck attacks could easily lead to an escalation of logistical costs and insurance and profit margins shrinking, Nwoko warned. Consumers, she added, end up bearing the brunt of increased food prices.
Protect the supply chain
“These are just a few examples of how the attacks on trucks are affecting the agriculture sector. It is important that we take action to protect our supply chain and to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
“I think it is high time we prioritise heightened security measures and protect supply chains to ensure the uninterrupted flow of goods and services across sectors,” said Nwoko.
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Don’t overlook truck drivers
The impact on truck drivers should not be overlooked, said Marika Pietersen, a social worker with more than 20 years’ experience in employee wellness.
According to Pietersen, the increasing incidents of truck burning demand serious attention as these attacks affect truck drivers in a significant way. “Truck burning put our drivers’ lives at risk and causes lasting emotional distress.”
Furthermore, these incidents result in financial setbacks, possibly leaving drivers without work, Pietersen added. “It not only impacts the truck driver but also their families.”
It is common that after an attack truck drivers will fear for personal safety and job security, and this can lead to stress and low morale among workers.
Pietersen said employers should offer assistance during times of crisis in order to prevent talent loss. “Refer employees for counselling to help manage the emotional toll of these incidents. Together, let’s protect our valuable truck drivers and strengthen the logistics sector.”
Drastic action required
Meanwhile, Agri SA has called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to deploy the South African National Defence Force to secure major transportation routes until the violent attacks have ceased.
Crime Intelligence should investigate who is behind these attacks and the culprits must be charged and brought to book, Agri SA said.
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